Special to the Tribune

Residents of northern El Paso County now have even closer access to the El Paso County Nature Centers’ Trailability Program beginning spring 2026. The Trailability Program will begin offering guided hikes at Fox Run Regional Park for people with mobility challenges.

This popular program, now in its fifth year at two other locations, brings families, friends and nature lovers together as a Terrain Hopper vehicle and a program volunteer provide participants of all abilities access to trail adventures. The program is completely free.

Fox Run Regional Park, located at 2110 Stella Drive, is now home to a brand-new Terrain Hopper secured through a grant from the Colorado Disability Funding Committee. Volunteers who have been trained and are familiar with the Fox Run Regional Park Trailability route will guide participants on a hike up to about three miles long through this beautiful, forested park.

There are two other locations in El Paso County for Trailability adventures. Bear Creek Nature Center and Fountain Creek Nature Center. Participants will experience very different environments at each location. Fountain Creek Nature Center is home to a wetlands locale rife with birds, bobcats, turtles and more. Bear Creek Nature Center features a scenic trail with geological focal points at the foot of Pikes Peak where participants hear a burbling creek and see wild animals, birds, and a wide variety of plants and trees.

People who have participated in Trailability hikes offer incredibly positive reviews and are effective ambassadors for the program. A total of 88 hikes were completed at the two nature centers in 2025.

“I loved the Terrain Hopper. It was so comfortable and easy to navigate once I got the hang of it. Everyone was wonderful. The staff were so kind, friendly, and knowledgeable. We will definitely sign up again,” wrote one participant.

The Trailability Program has received prestigious national and regional awards including the 2024 Inclusive Impact Award from Visit Colorado Springs and the 2024 Inclusivity Award from the Trails and Open Space Coalition (TOSC) .

Make 2026 the year to explore with the use of a safe, fun-to-ride Terrain Hopper and invite your friends and families outdoors to discover the El Paso County trails that are accessible to all.

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Registration begins April 1, 2026.

Hikes are offered mornings and afternoons beginning May 1 through Oct. 31.

Hikes at Fox Run Regional Park will be offered on Saturdays to begin the season with the possibility of more opportunities added later in the season.

Hikes at Bear Creek Nature Center are Wednesday, Friday, Saturday. Hikes at Fountain Creek Nature Center are Thursday, Friday, Saturday. A trained volunteer will accompany participants.

For more information or to register after April 1, go to https://parks.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-trailability-program/